To capitalize is to write or print a letter or word using the uppercase format, often done at the beginning of a sentence or for a proper noun. This grammatical rule is used widely in English and other languages for clarity and to follow writing conventions.
Related Questions
1. When should we capitalize a word?
Capitalization is necessary at the beginning of each sentence, for proper nouns (names of specific individuals, places, or things), and for titles when they come before a person’s name. Also, capitalize the first, last, and other significant words in a title or subtitle of books, movies, or other works.
2. What is the difference between lowercase and uppercase?
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Lowercase and uppercase refer to small letters and big letters respectively. For instance, the lowercase form of ‘A’ is ‘a’, while the uppercase form of ‘b’ is ‘B’. Words written in uppercase letters (or capitalized) often stand out more than words in lowercase.
3. What’s the purpose of capitalization?
Capitalization helps in distinguishing between proper nouns and common nouns, marking the beginning of a new sentence, highlighting important points, and indicating a person’s title. Overall, it improves readability and comprehension of written content.
4. Is it wrong to write in all uppercase?
Writing entire sentences or passages in uppercase can make your text hard to read and might give the impression that you are shouting. Therefore, it’s generally not encouraged unless you want to emphasize a word or sentence.
5. How is capitalization used in headlines?
In headlines, you typically capitalize the first word and last word regardless of their part of speech. Additionally, you would also capitalize all verbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, and subordinating conjunctions. Words that are typically not capitalized in headlines include articles, coordinating conjunctions, and prepositions unless they are the first or last word.